Nedap dairy ecosystem: CowControl, FarmControl, and MilkingControl
Digital ecosystem for herd monitoring and dairy farm management
DescriptionOverview of the initiative and its approach.
The Nedap Dairy Ecosystem is a digital herd management platform that integrates CowControl, FarmControl and MilkingControl to improve animal health, welfare and dairy productivity. CowControl uses sensors to monitor cow behavior, fertility and health; FarmControl automates feeding, sorting and routing; and MilkingControl tracks individual milk yield and flow. An augmented reality tool overlays real-time herd data in the barn, enabling faster identification of issues and hands-free decision support for farmers and advisors.
TechnologyTechnology used by the initiative.
The system uses IoT sensors (such as SmartTag and SmartSort), AI-powered vision (SmartSight) for lameness detection, and cloud analytics. Data is accessed via web and AR interfaces like HoloLens. The pipeline supports 24/7 monitoring of cow behavior, sorting, cow location tracking, and heat stress detection.
TargetUsers, groups, or communities targeted by the initiative.
Nedap serves commercial dairy farms, ranchers, and cooperatives focused on herd health and performance. Advisors and veterinarians benefit from detailed animal data for more timely and informed interventions across traditional and pasture-based systems.
Business modelHow the initiative delivers and sustains its value.
Revenue comes from sales of hardware components (SmartTag, SmartSort) paired with ongoing access to the software platform, which may include subscription or service fees, depending on features such as SmartSight.
ImpactThe observed or intended effects of the initiative.
The initiative aims to improve dairy farm productivity and animal health by integrating digital tools and data sources into a single ecosystem. According to the company’s website, the technology solutions could reduce inefficiencies in herd management, enhance animal welfare, and support sustainable milk production.
PartnersOrganizations and stakeholders involved in the initiative.
Alta Genetics; GEA; GENEX; Lely; Uniform Agri; VAS; Gallagher Animal Management; Waikato Milking Systems; BouMatic.
Four BettersThe FAO Four Betters supported by the initiative.
Better production
Better environment
